Welcome
To the e-travelguide to Hotels, guest houses
and attractions in Marseille
Make the most of your
time in Marseille, use the information provided
on this web site by clicking on the links
above to plan your visit.
Despite its status as France’s second largest city with over 1 million inhabitants, Marseille actually occupies twice as much land space as Paris. It is a large sprawling metropolis, which has long had an enduring reputation for being a little grittier than most other major French destinations and the sparkling glamour so often associated with the Southern coast of France is somewhat absent in Marseille. Nevertheless its unpredictability and unique charm have recently rejuvenated tourist interest in Marseille, and its rugged coastline and Mediterranean climate means that it is now holding its own amongst other French holiday destinations. With a large North African population originating predominantly from Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia Marseille enjoys a unique cultural landscape unlike that found anywhere else in France; from gastronomy to music, the multicultural inhabitants of Marseille create a distinctive mood that penetrates all areas of the city. In addition to the increase in tourism, Marseille has recently acquired direct high-speed train links with Paris, and this coupled with urban regeneration places the city as an important economic and commercial centre in France. Its young dynamic population and a strategic location between Europe and the Mediterranean mean that conferences and large-scale business events are commonly held in venues such as the Pharo Congress Centre and numerous chic hotels provide accommodation for visitors to the city.
Marseille was founded circa 600BC by Greeks from Phocaea as a key trading point and is still France’s largest commercial port. Major imports include petroleum, wine, fruits, olive oil, hides and skins, and tropical agricultural products. Major exports are dominated by wines, liqueurs, processed foods, cement, and metal products. Trade still plays an important part in the activities of Marseille and visitors have the opportunity to buy any manner of items; from exotic foodstuffs and local wines to handicrafts and designer fashions, the city’s bustling markets and winding bazaars can hide any number of treasures. Life in Marseille revolves largely around the charming historic harbour area of Vieux Port ( Old Port) and the neighbouring district of Le Panier. Dominated by the large forts of St Nicholas and St Jean the streets of the Vieux Port are lined with cafes and seafood restaurants with many of the city’s key attractions nearby. The Quai des Belges is home to Marseille’s famous fish market and is also the docking point for boats to the Chateau d’If. A number of museums document the history of the city and showcase archaeological artefacts to bring the past to life and the climb to the famous Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica will reward travellers with sweeping panoramas across the city. But visitors to Marseille do not have to look to museums to experience the history and culture of this unique French city – the spirit of Marseilles flows in the avenues, reflected in sidewalk cafes, busy ports, rugged beaches and crowded colourful streets.
Contact: +44 (0) 118 971 4700 |
